FIRST-STRING Synonyms: 141 Similar and Opposite Words

first-string

adjective

ˈfərs(t)-ˈstriŋ

Definition of first-string

as in excellent

of the very best kind a first-string rendition of the musical piece

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Recent Examples of first-string Carrig most often is that man for the Heat, taking over first-string duties after Miami’s longtime official scorer, Peter Abraham, retired in 2022. — Fred Katz, New York Times, 17 Mar. 2026 While the Steelers gave Warren a modest contract extension just before the start of the season, there really is no definitive first-string running back, which is just the way offensive coordinator Arthur Smith likes it. — CBS News, 27 Dec. 2025 The Colorado product will be expected to improve after operating as the team's first-string quarterback with Gabriel remaining in the NFL's concussion protocol. — Jacob Camenker, USA Today, 23 Nov. 2025 Tustin’s first-string defense was just as overwhelming, holding the Vanguards to negative-16 yards in the first half while the offense built a 48-0 lead. — Dan Arritt, Oc Register, 18 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for first-string

Recent Examples of Synonyms for first-string

Adjective

The neighborhood/area Just across the train tracks is Vesterbro with an excellent range of independent shops and restaurants, not least in Kødbyen, the Meat Packing district.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 4 Aug. 2026
As for dining options, Cafe Genevieve serves an excellent breakfast and brunch, and Million Dollar Cowboy Bar draws crowds for a taste of Western-style eats like bison burgers and elk sliders.

— Cu Fleshman, Travel + Leisure, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of excellent

Adjective

Council is a prime example of where this emerging political alliance is being tested.

— Paxton Honerkamp, CNBC, 1 Aug. 2026
Because permits, cabins and prime-season slots move quickly, most operators recommend booking well in advance rather than waiting for last-minute availability.

— Ashley Lynch July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

Definition of prime

Adjective

After a terrific collegiate career, Stanek was chosen by the Tampa Bay Rays with the 29th pick in the 1st round of the 2113 MLB draft.

— Bernie Pleskoff, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026
The ancho chili Caesar salad is a terrific appetizer to share, as are both types of shrimp aguachile verde.

— Connie Ogle July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026

Definition of terrific

Adjective

But what’s often lost about those Riley teams is that Oklahoma also had a stellar rushing attack, one that had to be accounted for at all times, and, in turn, made the passing attack all the more explosive.

— Ryan Kartje, Los Angeles Times, 3 Aug. 2026
To top it off, quite literally, the salon features a Rolls-Royce-style starlight ceiling, putting a stellar scene above you by night.

— Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 3 Aug. 2026

Definition of stellar

Adjective

Lee, so fine in a wide variety of roles from Past Lives to The Morning Show, is superb as a woman playing a role in life as well as piano bars.

— Pete Hammond, Deadline, 3 Aug. 2026
Hakai-hen’s mecha anime series lineup was also superb, with my beloved Dancouga included (shown below).

— Ollie Barder, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026

Definition of superb

Adjective

The other great piece of news is that, yes, this will get a localized release with multiple language support, something that the original PlayStation Portable version never had.

— Ollie Barder, Forbes.com, 2 Aug. 2026
Zachary Robert Stacer, 22, was arrested on July 30 and charged with two counts of assault with intent to do great bodily harm, three counts of felonious assault and five counts of resisting and obstructing a police officer.

— Joseph Buczek, CBS News, 1 Aug. 2026

Definition of great

Adjective

Start with the escargot, which pack a wonderful buttery, garlicky punch, each bite topped with a perfect, tiny puff pastry.

— Connie Ogle July 31, Miami Herald, 31 July 2026
The combination of David’s wonderful scripts, Lenny back directing on the BBC, Element Pictures producing, and Claire and Mathew leading our cast is a real gift.

— Jesse Whittock, Deadline, 30 July 2026

Definition of wonderful

Browse Nearby Words

first-rateness

first-string

firth

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“First-string.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/first-string. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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Synonyms of first-string

adjective

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